Lifelong Learning and Community Education

LEARN LINKS

Early Childhood Public K-12 Private K-12 Homeschool K-12 Higher Education Youth Organizations Lifelong Learning Online Enrichment

Curious Minds, Explorers and Non-Traditional Students Welcome

Lifelong learning is a priority in St. Joseph. From evening classes to non-traditional student opportunities, plus classes in community arts and theater, or specialized volunteer classes, our community of learners invites everyone to join.

LIBRARIES

We have not one, but two library systems serving St. Joseph. The St. Joseph Public Library has multiple locations across town. The largest is the downtown branch, with beautiful, century-old architecture and a complete Children’s Library on a level all its own. This space also offers a children’s interactive play area and special storytime seating. The newly-constructed branch near East Hills Shopping Center has a large patio and several unique murals, as well as a theater on the lower level. Rolling Hills Consolidated Library has private study rooms, two arts education rooms and an adjacent bookstore offering gently-used books for sale. All our libraries offer unique learning opportunities all year, from arts and crafts sessions to guest speakers and teen clubs, storytimes and movie nights.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Ready to learn more about photography, art or something else you’ve been thinking of? We’ve got you covered. The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art has professionally-instructed courses and workshops for every season. Many classes are taught in the hands-on studio rooms of the lower level, and there’s also a one-of-a-kind art library to explore. Missouri Western State University offers resources and support for adult learners, allowing students to succeed at any age. Missouri Western also offers lifelong learning opportunities for those over the age of 65. Hillyard Technical Center is an award-winning technical school, with a special program of adult evening and continuing education classes alongside its student courses in fields like business management, engineering and health fields. Vatterott College offers medical and trade programs, as well as other continuing education courses. For hobbyists, check out Robidoux Resident Theatre to learn theatre fundamentals and have your own moment in the spotlight.

ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY

The Webster Learning Center, the Missouri Career Center and the St. Joseph School District offer GED programs and English as a Second Language courses.